A MAN has been reunited with a treasured gold lost watch – after a little detective work by a museum attendant.

Oakwell Hall attendant John Gibbs managed to track down Allan Kirbyson and returned his watch, which had been lost in the grounds of the country park at Birstall.

The watch was of great sentimental value to Mr Kirbyson, as it was presented to him by his former employer.

Mr Gibbs said: “It wasn't just about the monetary value but also the sentimental value. If I had a watch like that and lost it, I would want to get it back. So I decided to try to do something about it.”

He used the internet to research the company named in the inscription – Cleckheaton wire manufacturers Critchley, Sharp and Tetlow. He discovered the company had changed hands over the years but managed to track down the most recent owners, Cold Draw Technology of Low Moor, Bradford.

In the meantime he also scoured phonebooks and found a Mr Kirbyson.

It turned out he was a regular dog walker in the park and was delighted to have his watch back.

Mr Kirbyson said: “I thought the wife had it but she must have put it in my pocket.”